My West Michigan Wedding
marriage ceremonies officiated by
Tom F. Hamel
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much are we allowed to customize the ceremony? Can we write our own vows?
A: Yes, you may write your own vows. I will work with you to personalize the ceremony in a way that provides the most meaning for you.
Q: How long is a typical ceremony?
A: My ceremonies usually last about 15 minutes. Ceremonies will be longer if music, traditional elements or readings are added.
Q: Do we need a permit for a beach wedding?
A: A permit is not always required, depending on the size of the wedding. Permission does need to be granted, however, and I work with the local authorities for permission on your behalf.
Q: Will you marry us even if we are not currently members of a church?
A: Although I suggest that you find a place of worship where you can grow spiritually together, it is not necessary to show membership at any certain place of worship.
Q: If we are of different faiths, or one of us is not religious, is that a problem?
A: I believe we are all at different places in our spiritual journey. A commitment to each other, and an understanding that marriage is a solemn and binding contract best undertaken with the help of God is my criteria for joining in marriage.
Q: We are planning a wedding for just the two of us? Are we required to have witnesses?
A: Yes you are. If family or friends are not an option, we can provide witnesses for you. My wife, Amy, is often a witness.
Q: We have a divorce in our past, is this a problem?
A: No
Q: Will our friends be allowed to participate in the ceremony, including giving readings, singing, etc.
A: Yes, we can work together in advance of the ceremony to find the best spots for others to be involved.
Q: Should we have a wedding rehearsal?
A: Most small, intimate weddings do not require a rehearsal. In fact, many couples prefer the feeling they have on their wedding day knowing that they are facing each other for the first time, saying their vows and sharing a powerful moment together. Larger weddings that involve many people in various responsibilities do benefit from a rehearsal.
A: Yes, you may write your own vows. I will work with you to personalize the ceremony in a way that provides the most meaning for you.
Q: How long is a typical ceremony?
A: My ceremonies usually last about 15 minutes. Ceremonies will be longer if music, traditional elements or readings are added.
Q: Do we need a permit for a beach wedding?
A: A permit is not always required, depending on the size of the wedding. Permission does need to be granted, however, and I work with the local authorities for permission on your behalf.
Q: Will you marry us even if we are not currently members of a church?
A: Although I suggest that you find a place of worship where you can grow spiritually together, it is not necessary to show membership at any certain place of worship.
Q: If we are of different faiths, or one of us is not religious, is that a problem?
A: I believe we are all at different places in our spiritual journey. A commitment to each other, and an understanding that marriage is a solemn and binding contract best undertaken with the help of God is my criteria for joining in marriage.
Q: We are planning a wedding for just the two of us? Are we required to have witnesses?
A: Yes you are. If family or friends are not an option, we can provide witnesses for you. My wife, Amy, is often a witness.
Q: We have a divorce in our past, is this a problem?
A: No
Q: Will our friends be allowed to participate in the ceremony, including giving readings, singing, etc.
A: Yes, we can work together in advance of the ceremony to find the best spots for others to be involved.
Q: Should we have a wedding rehearsal?
A: Most small, intimate weddings do not require a rehearsal. In fact, many couples prefer the feeling they have on their wedding day knowing that they are facing each other for the first time, saying their vows and sharing a powerful moment together. Larger weddings that involve many people in various responsibilities do benefit from a rehearsal.
Pricing for Services
Within Pentwater Village limits - $125
Within Oceana County - $150
Outside Oceana County - Contact for details
Weddings requiring rehearsal add - $50
Payment Terms
I am unable to accept payment by credit card.
Checks, money orders and PayPal accepted.
Deposit and Refund Policy
Payment in full is required when date is reserved. Cancellations after scheduling result in refund less $30 administration fee. Cancellations within 60 days of event result in loss of full deposit.
